Online Education: The Good, The Bad & The Rip-Off

Online schools can be a great way for professionals to continue their careers and get their education at the same time. But be wary of diploma mills. The BBB's Kristin George explains.

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By KTVA CBS 11

Story Created: Aug 2, 2011 at 2:13 PM AKDT

Story Updated: Aug 2, 2011 at 2:13 PM AKDT

It’s August, which can only mean one thing—it’s back to school time!

Students are set to hit the books again, but these days it's possible to take classes and even pursue a high school or college degree online without ever stepping into a classroom.

Online schools can be a great way for professionals to continue their careers and get their education at the same time.

But if you do some school surfing online, you’ll come across scam operations masquerading around as schools that will issue you a piece of paper with the word “diploma” for a price.

Learn how to separate the good, the bad and the rip-offs in this week’s interview with Kristin George from the Better Business Bureau.

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Mike said on Wednesday, Aug 3 at 7:43 AM

UAA/UAF/UAS have a lot of programs that are delivered on line. I support our colleges while gaining my 3rd degree while remaining fully employed. Look into our schools first.

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Sarah said on Tuesday, Aug 2 at 7:23 PM

If you do decide to take online classes make sure that the degree you are working towards is accepted in your state. Example: Alaska's bar association does not recognize online degrees for paralegals.

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Wayne said on Tuesday, Aug 2 at 4:52 PM

No kidding, U of Phoenix is one of those diploma mills that you can do everything online. I was taken for over $20,000 and was told my MBA would be worth something but it really was not. I was left with a piece of paper that cost me $20,000 and no job to boot. THANKS UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX!!!

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Susanna said on Tuesday, Aug 2 at 3:39 PM

It's not rocket science, just check with the regional accrediting agency, i.e., Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges (NWCCU)to see if the school is accredited. The regional agencies are recognized by both the United States Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. They are the same regional agencies that grant brick-and-mortar public and private schools their accreditation. Yes, there are scams in education but they are easily recognizable. Rule of thumb: if you don't have to do any work, chances are the degree is a scam.

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